The height difference and the force with which she pushes him away results in sudden tragedy, which seems to him like it happens in slow-motion: he's laughing, trying to get his footing back, but is tall enough that his center of gravity is able to surpass the railing of the ferry, bringing the rest of him with it.

What results is a wild flailing, a yelp of horror, and a heavy splash.

He emerges again a moment later, scrambling for the base of the railing like a wet cat, his expertly coiffed hair drenched and matted to his head in a black sheet.